Teresa's Recipes
Delicious Hazelnut Pesto
Experience a delightful twist on traditional basil pesto with this vibrant Hazelnut Pesto. The rich, nutty flavor of toasted hazelnuts combines beautifully with aromatic basil, zesty lemon, and sharp Parmesan cheese, creating a luscious sauce that elevates pasta dishes, enhances sandwiches, and serves as a delectable dip for fresh vegetables. This pesto not only showcases the humble hazelnut, which has been celebrated in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, but also brings a fresh and unique flavor that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Toasted hazelnuts
- 2 cups, packed Fresh basil leaves
- 2, peeled Garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed Lemon juice
- 1/2 cup Olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste Black pepper
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 8
- Dish Type: Sauce/Dip
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Sugar: 1g
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Allow to cool.
- In a food processor, pulse the toasted hazelnuts until they are finely chopped, taking care not to overprocess into a paste.
- Add the fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to the food processor. Pulse until all ingredients are well combined.
- While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
- Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if desired.
- Transfer the hazelnut pesto to a clean jar or container. Seal and refrigerate until ready to use, or enjoy immediately.
- This pesto is versatile! Use it as a luxurious sauce for pasta, a flavorful spread on sandwiches and wraps, or as a zesty dip for fresh vegetables and crackers.
Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Substitute the hazelnuts with other nuts like walnuts or pine nuts for a different flavor profile.
- To keep the pesto vibrant and fresh, store it in an airtight container and cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil.